If he was ever going to ride the cable, the Hyperlite Webb board is a pretty good crossover and comes in a 144. But like the others said, the Marek and Faction are tops for the big guys. I rode the small Faction for years and love that shape.

I've broken 2 Faction 144's so unless they've reinforced the board in the last few years, I can't really recommend it. It is a great riding board, very fluid and loose, fun but just not impressed with the strength. I've got two seasons on the 11 Marek 146 and love that board. Solidly built and really fun to ride. I'm 6'7" 255 lbs btw

I'm 6'0" and around 250, and ride a 143 Connelly (forgot which model) and it works great for me and just about everyone that rides with me (usually ranging from about 190-260). I picked up a Liquid Force 139 last year after dropping about 30lbs before the summer and it rode great and was a lot faster than the 143 with a lot better pop off the wake and worked good for most of the girls (albeit a little too much board honestly), but now that I've put most of the weight back on I'll probably be on the 143 all summer. I say a 143 minimum regardless of make/model is where he needs to be unless he's planning on losing some weight and keeping it off.

I'm 6'3" 200 and love the Marek 145. I tried a Ronix District 143 the other day, which has a 3 stage rocker, and I like it. I get more vertical pop with it. I notice it rides a little lower in the water, and it doesn't carry as much speed into the wake as the Marek, but I like the trade-off. My brother, who is 6'4" and 215 bought my Marek, so I'll still be able to ride it. I'd like to try the Slingshot Recoil 146 next.

Im 6'1" 340lbs and ride a LF Harley Monster edition 143. I like it a little more than the 146 LF Trip I used to ride. I really want to try the Marek. Ive heard nothing but good things about it. Of course I'm not doing a bunch of tricks and stuff yet but love riding as much as my big old butt will allow. LOL

The marek is an awesome board. Currently I'm riding at 230 but will be down in the teens by the end of the month. I ride a 141 and I'm used to it so I can work with it sinking a bit until I shed some pounds. The thing has awesome pop off the wake. It's all in your riding style and what you're comfortable with. If you are lucky enough to be able to demo boards then go that route and you won't be disappointed.

I have rode a lot of boards and I am 6'4 240 and the Hooke 146 is by far my favorite board. I get good air, very consistent, and if i do case the wake I normally ride right through. I have not done anything technical on it but it is a great riding board for my big butt.